Ramblers salute heroic past

RAMBLERS headed for the hills on a historic Trespass Trail to pay homage to a popular hero. They were marking the 75th anniversary of the mass trespass of Kinder Scout in 1932, led by Benny Rothman from Cheetham.

RAMBLERS headed for the hills on a historic Trespass Trail to pay homage to a popular hero.

They were marking the 75th anniversary of the mass trespass of Kinder Scout in 1932, led by Benny Rothman from Cheetham.

The unemployed mechanic, then just 20 years old, is hailed a champion of countryside access - the Peak District trespass he organised led to laws protecting the public's right to roam.

The area was held as private land in the 1930s and defended by gamekeepers who battled 400 walkers joining Mr Rothman. Many more have now spent the weekend walking parts of the Trespass Trail, created in the Hayfield area to link places associated with Mr Rothman - who died in 2002 - and the rambling movement.

Guided walks took in William Clough on Kinder Scout, where some of the original protesters clashed with keepers guarding what was then a private grouse moor.

Some walkers travelled to the Peak District on a train named after Mr Rothman at a ceremony at Piccadilly Station in Manchester.

Harry, 68, said his father would have been proud and highly amused that so many dignitaries had gathered to see the train named after him. He said: "My father would have been delighted, because all his life has been for the ordinary guy. He is only the second working class man to have a train named after him. He spent his life working in the trade union movement and was a very keen naturalist and environmentalist years before it became fashionable."

Northern Trains said they named a train after Mr Rothwell because he was an ordinary man who did something extraordinary.

Martin Doughty chairman of Natural England said: "There's no doubt that but for the direct action of the trespassers, we wouldn't have the freedom of access we have to our mountains, moorlands, nor our system of National Parks.

"It is right to remember their brave action and build on their legacy."